"... at least 17 children at any time are boarding in an emergency department across the state.”

Michigan’s hospitals and improved pediatric behavioral health care

The Michigan Health and Hospital Association addresses pediatric behavioral health care with data, advocacy, and grant funding of member hospital programs. 

Vintage vendors “crash” campus for market event

The local organization Vintage in the Zoo is holding a vintage "crash market" at WMU’s student center Monday, April 7.

Village Network leads work to create a Black Wall Street in Battle Creek

Plans for launching a Black Wall Street movement in Battle Creek will include a Black-owned business directory and two new websites with a mission to create "collective independence."

Housing in the time of DOGE: Where do we go from here?

There are complicated politics and attitudes aimed at efforts to provide affordable housing. In a recent public discussion, Kalamazoo County Housing Director Mary Balkema detailed the projects underway and outlined the barriers to getting housing up as fast as some community members would like, including the current climate of uncertainty regarding funding.

Battle Creek Pride hosts informational workshop in wake of efforts to overturn same-sex marriage

"I want to prepare people for these possible outcomes while keeping them present, focused, and together in community. There are so many moles to whack in this horrible game we’re playing.”

Trans folx celebrate Trans Day of Visibility by sharing their artwork in Kalamazoo

To honor Transgender Day of Visibility, OutFront Kalamazoo hosted a Trans Gallery for the Art Hop in March. Social Practice Artist Maya James spoke with several artists whose work has many intersections — from cover crops to animation.

Density debate: How Kalamazoo-area communities are thinking beyond single-family homes

Homeownership has long been an essential part of The American Dream. In the post-World War II housing boom, that often meant three- or four-bedroom homes on large lots in neighborhoods located a car drive away from commercial development. It’s time to rethink that paradigm, many say.

Jessica Rickert
Breaking Barriers: Dr. Jessica Rickert inspires native dentists

Jessica Rickert, DDS, the first American Indian female dentist, advocates for oral health equity and inspires Native youth through mentorship and representation.

The Kalamazoo Promise keeping its generous promise and more for 20 years

Still going strong after two decades, the Kalamazoo Promise has grown and pivoted to adjust to current trends and needs. "We started to realize that every student's story is unique." 

Groundbreaking Innovation Hub in Battle Creek creates abundant opportunity downtown

"All of this will help to build a downtown where people want to live, where businesses want to relocate and grow, and where stores want to open, all of which is essential for the future success of Battle Creek.” 

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